Animal Gala
Dallas animal advocates pull out the rock 'n' roll stops at THLN gala
Animal advocates from Dallas and all across Texas threw down on November 4 at the annual fundraiser for Texas Humane Legislation Network (THLN), an organization that lobbies for legislation to better the lives of animals.
Held at Brake & Clutch Warehouse in Deep Ellum, the event observed a "Rock the Vote" theme, both to encourage people to vote in the midterm elections and to suggest a dress code for the night.
More than 250 attendees showed up in their best rocker gear: pleather motorcycle jackets, frayed jeans, and biker boots, to bid on 65 auction packages including a raffle to a spa getaway in South Beach, doggie gifts, animal portraits, and more.
With rock band Space Rockers performing in the background, guests dug in to splendid grub — vegan, of course, this being an animal event — from CN Catering, including stuffed portabella mushrooms and a Thai stir-fry. A dessert bar was provided by Cinnaholic.
Two awards were bestowed: "Excellence in Animal Care and Control" to animal control officer Jamey Cantrell of Plano, and "THLN's Humane Hero" to Rob Acuna, an avid rescuer and volunteer in Houston.
THLN's biggest goals for the next legislative session include enacting tougher state-wide laws on tethering and puppy mill breeders.
Rocking out for the animals were THLN executive director Laura Donahue, honorary chair Holly Forsythe, Skip Trimble, State Rep. Giovanni Capriglione, Rep. Victoria Neave, Rep. Rodney Anderson, congressional candidate Lorie Burch, Cile Holloway, Katie Jarl Coyle, Mary Spencer, Maeleska Fletes, Traci Hanson, Stacy Smith, Gigi Ray, Natalie Stauffer Lynch, Jean Paul and Magdalena Bonnelly, Stacy Hague, Molly Theis Peterson, and Alex Johnson.